Robotics

The middle of winter is the perfect time to find a protective and stylish case for your iPad Pro. After all, a premium iPad Pro case is a necessary investment to safeguard your expensive tech. You will need a case that combines versatility, aesthetics, and durability to transform your tablet into a powerful ultra-portable computer. Also: The best iPads of 2025: Expert testedOur team has rigorously tested the best iPad Pro cases on the market to help you make an informed decision. From cases with robust drop protection to those with built-in trackpads, there’s something to suit everyone’s unique needs because when you’ve invested in an iPad Pro, it is crucial to protect it with a good-looking, functional, and tough case. Also: The 4 most exciting iPad Pro 2024 features (and what they can do for you)What’s the best iPad Pro case right now? Right now, our top pick for the best iPad Pro case is the Zugu 11-inch More

ZDNETThere are myriad reasons your internet connection might be slow. There is a checklist for troubleshooting most of these issues, and the solutions range from surprisingly easy to complex and expensive.Also: Slow home internet? 3 simple things I always check first for faster Wi-FiThe problem of internet “throttling,” though, is not on a typical troubleshooting checklist because it is intentionally perpetrated by your internet service provider. Your slow connection may have nothing at all to do with failing hardware, software, or the positioning of your router.Why would an ISP deliberately slow down your data feed? An ISP might deliberately slow down your connection in order to manage network congestion, enforce data caps on your plan, or prioritize certain types of traffic. A more insidious reason might be the ISP’s intention to influence your personal internet habits. For example, your provider might slow down specific websites and applications to steer customers away from Amazon Prime or Netflix in favor of using the ISP’s own streaming platform instead.Moreover, throttling can be used as a leverage tool to extract higher payments from companies. By slowing down the load times for a particular service, ISPs can pressure the company to pay for faster speeds for its customers. The additional costs incurred by the company are directly passed on to its subscribers in the form of higher fees or prices. More

I’ve tested dozens of earbuds as a tech product reviewer, and one thing I’ve learned is that you rarely need to spend more than $100 for a high-quality earbud. Audio technology has gotten so good — and so affordable — that many brands offer impressive earbuds with clear sound, great battery, and a comfortable build for anywhere from $20 to $100. Just because it’s possible to pay a budget price for a pair of earbuds doesn’t mean it’s easy to find these cheap earbuds. That’s why I’ve tested and compiled this list of affordable options. These earbuds can get you through your workouts, your video calls, study sessions, and more, all while providing a pleasant listening experience. Also: The best cheap headphones of 2025What are the best cheap earbuds you can buy right now?ZDNET went hands-on with every budget earbud pick on this list to compile recommendations for every use case, from casual and noise-canceling listens to exercise-friendly earbuds that stay put in your ear. Our staff tested out a ton of earbuds, chose our favorites, and left behind the flops to create this list of $100-or-less earbuds with impressive features. My pick for the best budget earbuds overall is the Nothing Ear (a) More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The RingConn Gen 2 is a subscription-free smart ring that retails for $300 It monitors your sleep, activity, stress, and vitals, and it’s got a marathon battery life The only downside is the user interface feels underdeveloped. –> Most smart rings these days claim to offer marathon battery lives but often […] More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Baseus MC1 Open Ear Clip-On Earbuds are on sale on Amazon for $60. They’re some of the most comfortable I’ve worn for exercising, and easily stay put when moving around. Although the MC1 earbuds don’t produce the best sound, it’s quite clear and loud enough for you to hear in […] More

A dead car battery in the middle of the winter can leave you stranded at the worst possible moment. Sure, traditional jumper cables work in a pinch, but they rely on the kindness of a passing stranger. What if nobody is around? This is where a portable jump starter comes in. A portable jump starter gives you the power to revive your battery anytime, anywhere. Today’s portable jump starters go beyond just a quick boost, however. Some models are compact and lightweight so that you can toss them in your glove compartment. Others pack extra features such as built-in air compressors, USB charging ports, and AC outlets.Also: The best dash cams you can buyWhat is the best portable jump starter right now?To help you find the best portable jump starter for your car, I’ve researched and compared different models for peak amps, size, weight, price, and additional features like flashlights and air compressors. My top pick for the best portable jump starter is the Everstart Maxx 1200A More

<!–> ZDNET’s key takeaways The Powerbeats Pro 2 retail for $250 in vibrant Black, Quick Sand, Hyper Purple, and Electric Orange colorways. The earbuds can replace your smartwatch or fitness tracker, offering exercise and activity data via companion apps. The sound isn’t very robust, delivering weak bass and hollow mids. –> I’ve tested dozens of […] More

ZDNETOpenAI recently announced Operator, an AI agent designed to perform tasks on the web.After testing it (yes, I paid the $200 bucks, but, more importantly, I kept the subscription🤯), this is a game-changer, but not for the reason you think.This article will probably get me in trouble with my business partner.Also: Will AI kill creativity and destroy human innovation? Here’s the unsettling truthI’m about to snitch on myself for your benefit. 😩I’m going to tell you the secret sauce behind how our ecom business generates millions in revenue and how Operator can help.In this article, I’ll break down:What Operator is and why it mattersThe good, the bad, and the ugly of using itThree ways you can turn Operator into a side hustleGrab a pen and paper if you’re into this kind of stuff. You’ll want to take notes. 🧐Quick introTo understand why this is a game changer, first, you must understand who I am and what I do for a living.If you are new to my work, my name is Lester, but feel free to call me Les.I’m a founder with a successful exit under my belt. These days, I’m the exec chair for a group of ecom brands, but at my core, I’m an award-winning performance marketer. 🤓☝️Also: From zero to millions? How regular people are cashing in on AINeedless to say, data and insights are my jam. We operate more like a data company than an ecom brand. Our secret sauce? Pairing data and insights with ideas that generate revenue.If you are into leveraging AI or emerging tech to help your workflow or generate revenue, check out my free newsletter, No Fluff Just Facts. I break down what is working in the world of AI along with actionable insights to implement… no fluff, just facts (see what I did there).But enough about me. I have to tell you why Operator is a game changer! 🤫 More